The coronary arteries are large blood vessels that supply the heart with oxygenated blood coming from the lungs. This blood replenishes cells of the heart muscle, which then pumps it out to oxygenate the rest of the body. Hardening, blockage, narrowing or damage to these arteries is called coronary artery disease, or CAD. The most common type of heart disease, CAD is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States.
Risk Factors
Coronary artery disease starts when the inner lining of the blood vessels are damaged by smoking, alcoholism, high blood pressure, high cholesterol or diabetes. Atherosclerosis is the buildup of plaque in these damaged areas, leading to narrowed, less-flexible arteries and an increased risk of heart attack. It is impossible to change some risk factors, such as being an older male with a family history of heart disease, but poor diet, obesity and lack of exercise can be corrected.
Effects
CAD may manifest as angina, a condition characterized by pressure and pain felt in the chest, jaw, neck, shoulder, arm or back as a result of diminished blood flow to the heart. Over time, the lack of oxygenated blood caused by CAD can weaken the heart muscle. When the heart cannot beat with enough force to push blood along properly, fluids seep into the lungs and tissues, causing shortness of breath and swelling. Coronary artery disease can also cause the heart to beat too fast. In this condition, called atrial fibrillation, the chambers can no longer fill and empty properly. Because of disorganized electrochemical impulses, the left atria quivers and allows blood to pool and clot.
Diagnosis
No single test is diagnostic for CAD. Signs of coronary artery disease are apparent to doctors examining the eyes; an artery clogged with plaque will be heavy, causing a depression in the vein underneath the eye. The name for this is AV nicking. Elevated blood pressure and serum lipids are also indicators. X-ray or ultrasound of the heart can reveal abnormalities, and electrocardiogram and stress tests are able to assess heart function. A coronary angiography uses injected dye to visualize blood flow to the heart.
Treatment
Angina is relieved with medications and relaxation; moderate exercise and a healthy diet can improve it. Smaller blood vessels around the heart can expand to compensate for those that are narrowed or blocked. To prevent episodes of heart failure, patients need to restrict dietary fluids and salt. Medication can eliminate fluids and improve heart function. Treatment of atrial fibrillation consists of medications or surgery.
Prevention/Solution
Getting regular checkups assures early detection of CAD, before advanced treatments or bypass surgery are needed to restore blood flow to the heart. Get help to quit smoking and stop drinking alcohol. Control cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar with an exercise and healthy diet program. Walk, bike or swim three or more days a week. Eliminate highly processed, fatty and refined foods. Drink water and eat more vegetables, fish, walnuts, fruit, whole grains and beans. Try quinoa, kefir, tofu and spirulina.
